Lab Pointer Basics

The Lab Pointer brings together two mild-mannered dog breeds; the Labrador Retriever and Pointer to produce an intelligent, energetic dog that is the perfect addition to the active family with kids and pets or even a first-time pet owner who is new to living with a pooch. He interacts well with other dogs and pets and his sweet nature and love of play make him a terrific running or jogging companion.

The Lab Pointer is a hybrid of Labrador Retriever and Pointer.

Origin

The Lab Pointer is a new breed that almost certainly originated in the 1980s when the popularity in designer dogs first surfaced. Breeders mixed purebred dogs in order to introduce desirable physical attributes and personality traits as well as to eradicate known health issues. Although he is a young breed, the Lab Pointer’s lineage has some impressive history. Both parent breeds come from a working/sporting background; the Labrador retriever from 19th century Newfoundland where he was used by fishermen to haul nets, ropes and pull in fish. The Pointer is rumored to date back to the 16th century when he was brought to England from Spain and Portugal for his keen hunting prowess (pointing!)

Pedigree

Because he is considered a designer dog, the Lab Pointer is not able to join the American Kennel Club (AKC). His parents however, have both achieved AKC status; the Labrador retriever was admitted to the club’s “sporting” group in 1917 and is described as active, friendly and outgoing. The Pointer also joined the coveted group’s “sporting” group back in 1884 and is considered even-tempered, hardworking and loyal.

Food / Diet

The Lab Pointer is a medium-sized dog and will consume 2-2.5 cups of a top quality dry food that can be fed to him throughout the day. Because Labs are renowned for overeating and obesity, free-feeding is discouraged. Look for foods that are geared specifically to the size, weight, age and activity level of your dog and be wary of fillers such as carbohydrates and grains that will cause him to want to eat more in order to feel full. Opt for ingredients that indicate “meat” as a first ingredient and because he may be prone to joint issues, foods that include glucosamine are a good option. As this breed can experience bloat, don’t plan walks or active play immediately after feeding.

The Lab Pointer is an intelligent, energetic dog that is the perfect addition to the active family.

Training

The Lab Pointer is a mix of two highly intelligent breeds that are renowned for their ability to take direction when working in the field. In spite of this, the Lab-Pointer can be a handful to train because of his tendency to become distracted and lose focus. He can tend to be timid so socialization will be key to bringing out the best in this dog and making him comfortable with human and animal interactions. Your dog will need firm but consistent direction during training sessions and as with most dogs, a rewards-based approach with plenty of praise (and treats of your choice) will go a long way in getting the desired results.

Weight

The Lab Pointer is considered a medium-sized breed and when fully grown, will weigh 35-50 pounds depending on gender.

Temperament / Behavior

The Lab Pointer is a friendly, trusting breed with an eager-to-please personality and high degree of loyalty to his family pack. While he considers himself to be a key and loving family member, he isn’t a clingy breed and has an independent nature that means he is comfortable being left on his own for more than a few hours. Because he has inherited a rather heightened sense of smell, the Lab-Pointer makes for a great watchdog who won’t hesitate to react if he sniffs out what he feels is an intruder. That said, he isn’t an aggressive breed and will simply bark or bay to alert you.

Common Health Problems

Lab Pointers are generally quite healthy and are not known to suffer from specific ailments however prospective pet parents should always check out their dog’s lineage to learn about potential health issues. In this instance, both the Labrador retriever and the Pointer can suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia. The Pointer is also known to be prone to gastric torsion (bloat) and hypothyroidism.

Life Expectancy

The Lab Pointer has a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years.

Exercise Requirements

The Lab Pointer is a combination of two sporting group dogs so no surprise that he is a highly active boy. He will need daily long walks to help him burn off some of his energy and remain physically and mentally healthy. Active playtime with kids and other dogs will help him satisfy his need for social interaction and provide variety to his exercise regimen. Note that he has a high propensity to wander, so if you visit a leash-free zone, be sure to keep an eye on his whereabouts.

The Lab Pointer is a friendly, trusting breed with an eager-to-please personality.

Recognized Clubs

Also known as a Pointerdor, a Labrador-Pointer and a Labrador Retriever Pointer Mix, the Lab-Pointer’s designer dog lineage means he cannot join the American Kennel Club (AKC) however he is a member of the the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC), the Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC and the Dog Registry of America, Inc. (DRA).

Coat

Lab Pointers have a short, dense, waterproof double coat that requires moderate grooming in the form of regular daily brushing. He is a considered a moderate-shedding dog but that can change during spring and fall shedding seasons where you will find yourself vacuuming frequently. He doesn’t require professional grooming, however because this is a floppy-eared breed, infections can occur so ears should be checked and cleaned regularly to avoid a buildup of wax and debris.

Puppies

Lab Pointer puppies are intelligent but mentally scattered so as previously mentioned, plan to begin their socialization and obedience training early in order bring out the very best in your little guy. The Lab side of this pup is known for over-eating so feed him several times throughout the day versus allowing him to free-feed. Because the Lab-Pointer comes from two breeds known to have joint issues later in life, resist the temptation to tire him out with lengthy walks or excessive play that might cause injury.

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